Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide accommodations for disabled people?
Yes. As a disabled person myself, I understand how important accommodations are. For example, for visually-impaired clients, I use a larger font. For people with processing disorders, I edit books in smaller portions. There's also a video chat option to discuss projects in more detail. All you need to do is let me know your accommodations, and I will adjust the editing process to your needs accordingly. If you're unsure, we can work together to figure something out. Everything will be handled with respect and privacy.
Do you edit in British English, Canadian English, or AAVE?
Yes. Whether your poems are written in American English, African American Vernacular English, British English, or some other variation of English, I can help you. Just let me know which one it is.
What do you use to edit my poems?
I use Microsoft Word's track changes feature. It's important that you have MS Word or a word processor (i.e. Apache Open Office) that can display such changes and any comments that I make in the margins. This will also allow you to easily accept and reject each change as you see fit.
My poems are overly triggering offensive and/or disturbing. Can you still edit them?
I do not edit poetry books that are offensive, violent, or disturbing in nature. I'm very open about the fact that I'm an abuse survivor, so to avoid triggers of my own, I prefer not to edit a book about abuse in any form, especially if it's written in a highly visceral manner. I will also outright refuse projects that promote bullying, hate speech, ableism, sexism, homophobia, trans-exclusionary radical feminism, or racism. Thanks for understanding!
Do you edit Christian or Biblical poetry?
It isn't my area of expertise or interest as an editor and writer, so no.
Do you offer poetry writing or rewriting services?
Each poet has their own unique poetic voice, and my job as an editor is to help poets hone their craft. Therefore, I don't rewrite or ghostwrite, but I do provide guidance and suggestions in my commentary and critiques.
How long have you been writing poetry?
I've been writing poetry since I was 13, and I'm now in my thirties... So, quite a while! Within that time, I've easily written over 2,000 poems—some of which are published in various publications both online and in print. I'm also the author of several books.
What kind of poetry do you enjoy writing or reading?
I love reading poetry that is healing and empowering in nature. I'm also into philosophical and mystical (not religious) poetry. My writing style is an eclectic assortment of philosophical, mystical, Zen, healing, magickal (yes, with a 'k'), nature-inspired, and surreal. Poetic activism is important to me, so I gravitate towards "poetry for change". Sometimes my poems rhyme (oftentimes unintentionally), sometimes they don't. I've written haiku, senryū, free-verse poems, sonnets, canzones, ghazals, etc. My preference is free-verse and experimental. Rumi is my favorite poet of all time!
What are your credentials?
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B.A. (honors) in Creative Writing (Poetry focus)
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15+ years' professional writing & editing experience
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Award-winning Author
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Edited AND written thousands of poems to date
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Featured at a multitude of poetry readings and open mics
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Founder of Poe Press & Poetic Muses
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Prior Creator and Editor-in-Chief of Our Words Heard
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3,000+ 5-star ratings on a leading freelance platform
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Poetry has been my special interest since I was in middle school. Every day since then (literally), poetry has been the focal point of my life.
How many poetry books have you edited so far?
I have edited over 500 poetry books, many of which are bestsellers.
What does the editing you do entail?
I correct grammar, spelling, typing, capitalization, wording, and tense errors. I also add or remove punctuation to enhance the flow. In addition to that, I input line-breaks or stanza-breaks in areas that need it. Furthermore, I point out anything that lacks clarity or weak word choices that can be improved upon (Levels 2 and 3). That isn't an exhaustive description, so go here to read about my services in more detail.